Gloucester County, N.J. – Budgeting, banking, renting an apartment, how to do laundry and grocery shop are some of the skills Gregory learned while in Youth Advocate Programs™, Inc. (YAP®) Gloucester County.
“I met with my YAP® worker Sarah Gross on a weekly basis for life skills sessions,” Gregory said. “Sarah has also taught me how to advocate for myself, make friends in and out of school, and prepare for my driving test.”
YAP® is a national nonprofit in 32 states and Washington, D.C., providing services that reduce the nation’s overreliance on youth incarceration, residential care, group homes and other out-of-home placements. Celebrating its 50th year in 2025, YAP® partners with public systems to provide community-based wraparound and behavioral health services as an alternative to residential care and incarceration.
Gregory received services from YAP® Gloucester County Youth Justice staff who work with 8-17-year-olds who have been referred to the program through the courts, self-referrals, law enforcement or other entities. The program pairs youth with a YAP® Advocate, from or close to their neighborhood, who serves as a champion for them and their families and connects them to individualized economic, emotional or education services in addition to overall life skills. The Advocates and program participants spend up to three hours a week together.
Gregory graduated from high school in June and was accepted to Stockton University with hopes of becoming a gastroenterologist. He was recently awarded a laptop through the Tom Jeffers Endowment Fund Scholarship for Continuing Education. Eligible current and former YAP® program participants, along with their parents/guardians, can apply for the scholarship annually for $1,500 in tuition and fees assistance or a laptop computer. The Endowment Fund is supported mostly through YAP® employee payroll deductions.
Gross, YAP® Gloucester County Life Skills Coordinator, said Gregory had to cope with obstacles that were no fault of his own and were beyond his control, adding that “one of his greatest strengths is that he never gives ups and asks for help when needed.” Earlier this year, Gregory accompanied Gross to YAP’s Board of Directors meetings in Atlantic City, N.J., where she was recognized for her work by YAP® leaders.
“During each session, Gregory asked thoughtful questions, provided insightful feedback, and practiced self-reflection,” said Gross who has worked for YAP® for 28 years. “From the first time I met Gregory, he had a clear vision that he wanted to pursue a career in medicine, specializing in gastrointestinal care. Not only is Gregory an excellent student and quick learner, but he is also kind, thoughtful and genuinely cares for others. He has a strong desire to help and support and lift up others as they pursue their own dreams.”
Gregory is thankful to receive a new laptop and is excited to begin his post-secondary education.
“I am extremely grateful to say that YAP® has always been there for me when I needed it, be it through tough times or just seeking guidance related to college, the future, or even just personal endeavors,” Gregory said.
Added YAP® Endowment Board President and Chief Impact Officer Patty Rosati, “We are all so very proud of you. Best of luck in your studies.”
More information on the Endowment Fund can be found here. For more information on YAP®, visit yapinc.org.